You know, since UKIP topped the York Polls we appear to be hearing rather a lot about the low turnout. But if you check out the historical turnout, nothing much has changed, just that UKIP spoilt the party for some.
The letter writer is correct with the example of Lendal Bridge restrictions and representatives not listening. This does indeed put the public off from voting.
But UKIP does offer a change in approach and at last offers real choice.

You know, since UKIP topped the York Polls we appear to be hearing rather a lot about the low turnout. But if you check out the historical turnout, nothing much has changed, just that UKIP spoilt the party for some.
The letter writer is correct with the example of Lendal Bridge restrictions and representatives not listening. This does indeed put the public off from voting.
But UKIP does offer a change in approach and at last offers real choice.ColdAsChristmas

The idea of not voting can feel wrong because, as the letter writer says, we know of some peoples' struggles for a voice and for their right to a say but the truth is when we vote we uphold, perpetuate and strengthen the system of abuse and injustice which seeks to artificially empower certain individuals, their corporate allegiancies and their agendas at the expense of the fellowship between human beings. It pits us against each other whilst feeding the greedy and needy.

If I voted I would be validating the corrupt system. I refuse to endorse what I know to be wrong.
I will not choose "the best of a bad bunch" No way.

If only there were more free thinkers. I reiterate my "5 dried grams " and "250 micrograms" from the other day. It really couldn't do anything but help :-)

The idea of not voting can feel wrong because, as the letter writer says, we know of some peoples' struggles for a voice and for their right to a say but the truth is when we vote we uphold, perpetuate and strengthen the system of abuse and injustice which seeks to artificially empower certain individuals, their corporate allegiancies and their agendas at the expense of the fellowship between human beings. It pits us against each other whilst feeding the greedy and needy.
If I voted I would be validating the corrupt system. I refuse to endorse what I know to be wrong.
I will not choose "the best of a bad bunch" No way.
If only there were more free thinkers. I reiterate my "5 dried grams " and "250 micrograms" from the other day. It really couldn't do anything but help :-)Buzzz Light-year

The turn out was obviously a factor in UKIP's success. All the pundits agree that a low turn out combined with proportional representation works very well for pressure groups and small parties.

That is not to diminish the UKIP result, it is a phenomenon which has put dynamite under the main parties. However I suspect it is only partly due to Europe, but also has as much to do with the fact that people feel powerless and disenfranchised by the contempt in which they are held by the big parties, and they have lashed out. An understandable impulse, even though it was misdirected.

It looks like the pundits are divided on the long term outcome. Some say there is already a distinct hiss of escaping air from the over-inflated UKIP balloon, but others say they are here too stay. My guess is that they will do well in Newark (but will not win) on the back of the Euro success, but may not get a seat in the General Election partly because it is "first past the post" but also because the electors have registered their protest and will return to their usual voting patterns.
If that happens demoralisation with UKIP will set in fast.

The turn out was obviously a factor in UKIP's success. All the pundits agree that a low turn out combined with proportional representation works very well for pressure groups and small parties.
That is not to diminish the UKIP result, it is a phenomenon which has put dynamite under the main parties. However I suspect it is only partly due to Europe, but also has as much to do with the fact that people feel powerless and disenfranchised by the contempt in which they are held by the big parties, and they have lashed out. An understandable impulse, even though it was misdirected.
It looks like the pundits are divided on the long term outcome. Some say there is already a distinct hiss of escaping air from the over-inflated UKIP balloon, but others say they are here too stay. My guess is that they will do well in Newark (but will not win) on the back of the Euro success, but may not get a seat in the General Election partly because it is "first past the post" but also because the electors have registered their protest and will return to their usual voting patterns.
If that happens demoralisation with UKIP will set in fast.Jonothon

Keep dreaming Jonothon and the low turnout was quite normal and is low for all concerned. As for first past the post, it is just a case of getting more votes than the other candidates, job done.

Keep dreaming Jonothon and the low turnout was quite normal and is low for all concerned. As for first past the post, it is just a case of getting more votes than the other candidates, job done.ColdAsChristmas